Dear Parishioners,
I know that many people are not on a “school year” calendar. But for many of us, this time of year brings a livelier rhythm to our schedules. Life seems to get especially busier after Labor Day. Therefore, this seems to be a good time to think about our priorities and to pray for God’s guidance.
It has been said that the truly important is often pushed aside by the merely urgent. So, as you review your priorities, please make sure that you include what’s really important!
First of all, be sure to include time for God, as well as for job, family, and recreation. Of prime importance, make sure that Mass on Sundays is a top priority — that’s the most important event of the week. In addition, reserve some time for personal Scripture study, as well as prayer with your family or a prayer group — then incorporate that into your daily and weekly routine.
There are many forces pulling at us as we decide where to use our talents. For most of us, our jobs claim the lion’s share of our efforts and sometimes threaten to engulf our whole lives. We also have responsibilities to our families and legitimate calls for service to the community — that obviously includes the Church. We have lots of areas for service right here in our own parish — religious education, music, serving as an usher, or any one of the many ministries in which you may use your talents to grow closer to God.
Finally, we have to set priorities for using our money. As Christians, we are responsible to God for the use of the financial resources He has entrusted to us — no matter if it’s a lot or a little — and to make a return to God in thanksgiving. In this regard, Scripture gives us the tithe as a goal. Working toward a tithe may mean some changes in your priorities, but I can tell you from personal experience that those who have adopted this as their standard of giving experience a joy rooted in the spiritual growth that occurs as we continually live out the “three Ts” of stewardship — time, talent and treasure.
Priorities are certainly a part of life. As you review your own priorities, especially now as we begin returning to our regular routines, ask yourself how you will use the time, talent, and treasure entrusted to you by God.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Rev. Avram Brown
Pastor